Ergonomics, legislation and productivity in manual materials handling

Abstract

Manual-handling-related injuries remain a fairly high and constant proportion of all injuries at work in Australia. To assist in reducing the number and severity of these injuries, the Occupational Health and Safety Manual Handling Regulations 1988, came into effect in February 1989 in the state of Victoria. The regulations do not specify any weight limits but require employers to ‘assess and control risks arising from manual handling activities in workplaces’. The regulations are supplemented by a code of practice to provide practical guidance in the three stages of risk identification, assessment and control. There is a risk-identification checklist and the assessment is based on the NIOSH formula and factors by means of a calculated weight table. Risk control establishes a priority order of job redesign, mechanical aids and specific training. Practical examples illustrate the processes, and the possible control options. The positive role that ergonomics can play in solutions and improving productivity is discussed.

Keywords:

• Manual materials handling
• Legislation
• Productivity and ergonomics